Garden Peach Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) produces small, yellow fruits that blush pink when ripe, with thin, fuzzy skin reminiscent of a peach. Known for its soft texture, juicy flesh, and delicately sweet, fruity flavor, it offers a light, refreshing taste unlike typical tomatoes. Perfect for salads, pasta dishes, or snacking fresh, this indeterminate variety is a prolific grower that performs well in containers and can store for up to 4 months.
First domesticated in the mountains of South America and native to the Amazon, the Garden Peach Tomato—known in Peru as "cocona"—was introduced to the United States in the 1890s. By 1893, Burpee described it as "delicate, melting in the mouth like a grape." Plant breeder Elbert S. Carman of *The Rural New-Yorker* played a role in its introduction to the U.S., with Hallock & Son’s of Queens, NY offering it in their 1890 catalog. This tomato's long history of use extends to savvy gardeners who pick the fruits before frost to keep them for weeks, adding versatility in the kitchen with a flavor perfect for grilling or drying.
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All Nimble NiteCap Seeds are:
- Heirloom
- Organic
- Non-GMO
- Open Pollinated
- Untreated
- US Grown
- Growing instructions included
- Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.
Sustainable Packaging & Shipping:
- NimbleNitecap seeds are packed in eco-friendly, compostable seed packets. Seed packets are printed in-house with vegetable-based inks on biodegradable, recycled materials. (Small plastic bags are infrequently used to prevent the loss of very small seeds.)
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Common Names: Garden Peach Tomato
Latin Name: Solanum lycopersicum
Type: Vegetable
Life Cycle: Annual
USDA Zones: 3 - 11
Stratification: Not Required
Germination Ease: Easy
Sunlight: Full Sun
Moisture: Moderate
Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil
Height: 4-6 feet (indeterminate)
Spread: 2-3 feet
Color: Yellow with a pink blush and fuzzy skin
Harvest Season: Summer through Fall
Companion Plants: Basil, Marigold, Carrots (Garden Peach Tomatoes benefit from these companions, which help deter pests and improve growth.)
Potential Toxicity: Non-toxic
Climate Adaptability: Thrives in warm, sunny climates
~ Sowing ~
When to Sow Outside:
Direct sowing is not recommended. For best results, start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date and transplant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.
When to Start Inside:
Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost for transplanting. Harden off seedlings before planting outside.
Days to Emerge:
7-14 days
Seed Depth:
Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep.
Seed Spacing:
Space plants 24-36 inches apart.
Hardiness:
Frost-sensitive. Wait until nighttime temperatures are consistently above 50°F before transplanting.
~ Growing ~
Soil:
Garden Peach Tomatoes prefer well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Incorporate organic matter like compost for the best results.
Watering:
Water consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can cause root rot and stress the plant.
Light and Temperature:
Grow in full sun. Tomatoes thrive in warm temperatures, with optimal growing conditions between 70°F and 85°F.
Maintenance:
As an indeterminate variety, Garden Peach Tomatoes will continue growing and producing fruit throughout the season. Provide sturdy support with stakes or cages to manage the plant’s height. Prune regularly to encourage airflow and prevent disease.
Container Friendly:
Can be grown in large containers with good drainage. Use a deep pot, at least 12-18 inches in diameter, to accommodate root growth.
~ Harvesting ~
When to Harvest:
Harvest when the fruits are fully ripened, with a soft yellow color and a slight pink blush. The skin will feel slightly fuzzy, similar to a peach.
How to Harvest:
Gently twist or cut the fruits off the vine to avoid damaging the plant.
Drying and Storing:
Garden Peach Tomatoes are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in a cool, dry place for several days after harvest. For long-term storage, consider canning or preserving.
Edible Use:
Garden Peach Tomatoes are perfect for fresh eating, adding to salads, or serving as a sweet, mild snack. They can also be used in sauces or lightly roasted for a more intense flavor.
~ Seed Saving ~
Seed Collection:
Select fully ripened tomatoes and scoop out the seeds. Place the seeds in a jar of water and allow them to ferment for 2-3 days. After fermentation, rinse and dry the seeds completely.
Seed Cleaning:
Rinse seeds thoroughly after fermentation, removing any pulp or residue. Spread seeds out to dry on a paper towel.
Seed Storage:
Store seeds in a cool, dry place. Seeds remain viable for up to 4 years if stored properly.
~ Additional Information ~
Forage for Pollinators:
Tomato flowers attract bees and other pollinators, improving fruit set and yields.
Origin:
Native to South America, the Garden Peach Tomato has become a popular heirloom variety, known for its sweet flavor and distinctive appearance.
Nomenclature:
The name "Garden Peach" refers to the tomato’s fuzzy skin and peach-like appearance.
History:
The Garden Peach Tomato has been grown for over 200 years and remains a favorite for its unique look and sweet, mild flavor.
Potential Toxicity:
Non-toxic to humans and animals, though the leaves and stems of the tomato plant are not edible.
Climate Adaptability:
Thrives in warm, sunny climates and requires a long growing season for optimal fruit production.
